Taylor River volunteers help relocate fish

As expected after the heavy rain last Friday, a large amount of weed moved down the Taylor River, with some getting lodged at the Beaver Road and High Street bridges.

A long reach excavator was quickly on hand to remove it, placing it on the river bank. Council then put out a call for volunteers to help relocate the eels, koura (freshwater crayfish) and juvenile fish stuck in the weed back into the river.

There was a great turnout from the public including Rangitāne o Wairau iwi members, and lots of fish and other creatures were returned to the water. Curious children came along too, eager to help and learn.

Council's Rivers and Drainage Engineer

Andy White said it was a good result.

“Many thanks to all the people who gave a hand at short notice. It was obvious to see just how much life there is in the river now. Retaining the vegetation through the breeding season means we’re seeing a heathier ecosystem, as fish and other creatures reproduce over the summer months.

Also, the benefit of Friday’s natural ‘weed raft’ means that very little cutting is now required along this part of the river.”

Weed cutting downstream from Hutcheson Street bridge is on schedule to start from

1 May, under the Marlborough Environment Plan rules, he said

The greener approach to managing the river was paying dividends for aquatic wildlife, although some people did not appreciate the wilder look of the river.

“The Taylor River Reserve is a special place for a lot of locals, particularly for recreation. Whilst residents will have observed flooded footpaths alongside the river, this was within the floodway zone and at no time presented a threat to property or life.” “Council will always prioritise flood protection within the confines of the primary stop banks and that remains unchanged.”

He said the river bed is higher than it used to be through aggradation (sedimentation) and that is something the Council will address over the next two years through sediment removal.

The remaining weed will be removed over the next few days.